Go Back
–+ servings

Pistachio Lush

A bright, creamy layered no-bake dessert with a buttery graham crust, tangy cream cheese layer, and glossy pistachio pudding topping, perfect for potlucks and weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert, No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers Can be replaced with vanilla wafer crumbs for a different base character.
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted Use for binding the crust.
For the filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture; reduced-fat versions can be grainy.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Used to sweeten the cream cheese layer.
  • 1 cup whipped topping Fold into the cream cheese for a light filling.
For the pudding layer
  • 1 package pistachio pudding mix Instant pudding gives the distinct color and flavor.
  • 1 cup cold milk Whisk with the pudding mix until it thickens.
For garnish (optional)
  • 1 cup chopped nuts Can be toasted for deeper flavor if adding.
  • green food coloring For coloring the pudding layer.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer to bake the crust for extra firmness.
  2. Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl until evenly moistened.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan to form the crust.
  4. If baking, place the crust in the oven for 8–10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  5. In a clean bowl, whisk the pistachio pudding mix into the cold milk until the mixture thickens and holds soft peaks.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and lump-free.
  7. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light, spreadable cream layer.
Assembly
  1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
  2. Spoon or pour the thickened pistachio pudding over the cream cheese layer and smooth the top.
  3. Refrigerate the assembled pan for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, until the layers are fully set.
  4. Before serving, optionally sprinkle chopped nuts over the top and add a few drops of green food coloring swirled into the pudding for a brighter hue.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10g

Notes

Use chilled bowls for whipped topping to maintain volume. For a neater cut, run a knife under hot water and dry between slices. Adjust ingredients for dietary needs if necessary.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!